January 23, 2005
Reclaimed Wood Information
Reclaimed wood is definitely in style for everything from custom furniture to hardwood floors. Why?
- Using reclaimed wood in building projects means no living trees are cut--AKA ecologically friendly.
- Reclaimed wood often comes from old-growth trees that aren't commercially available any more; the lumber from many of these old-growth trees has superior grain patterns and color than new material.
- Giving new life to reclaimed wood instead of throwing it away means less burden on rapidly expanding landfills.
Reclaimed Wood Uses
Ordering reclaimed wood can sometimes be a bit of a chore since sizes aren't always cut small enough to fit on transport vehicles. The tight grain patterns and large growth rings make the lumber highly desirable, though. For what, you ask? Reclaimed wood is popular in floors, but it looks great in stairs, paneling, and trim as well.
Cost of Reclaimed Wood
The costs for reclaimed woods are actually in line with high-end hardwoods on the market. TerraMai--"offering you exceptional reclaimed woods from around the corner and around the world"--says pine prices range from $4-$20 per board foot (a board foot is 1 inch thick by 1 foot square). Douglas fir is about $3.50 per board foot. Teak-$12. Ultimately, the price will depend on who you buy it from and availability. Keep in mind labor costs will add to the price (figure $2-3 per square foot).
Source: Nov/Dec 2004 issues of Smart HomeOwner
